Why STEM? Podcast

This episode is personal. In this solo Season 1 finale of The Why STEM Podcast, host Dr. Rameesh Madourie shares the story he hasn’t told yet, his own. From growing up in Jamaica with curiosity and imagination, to becoming an educator and leader committed to equity and opportunity, this episode explores the moments, mentors, and purpose that shaped his “Why.” Dr. Madourie reflects on early inspira...

In this reflective episode, we dive deep into the “why” behind STEM careers the motivation, passion, and defining moments that drive professionals to innovate, lead, and push boundaries. Whether you're a student exploring STEM or a seasoned professional seeking renewed purpose, this conversation will help you reconnect with the heart of your STEM journey. Join our featured guests — Jess Hasti...

In Episode 6 of the Why STEM Podcast, Dr. Rameesh Madourie sits down with Jess Hastings, Senior Vice President at Benesch, to explore the intersection of civil engineering, mentorship, and shaping the next generation of STEM leaders. Jess shares his journey from being a curious kid building with LEGOs in Nebraska to leading major infrastructure projects that shape communities. More importantly, he...

What happens when a student struggling in precalculus becomes a tech leader in software engineering? In this episode of the Why STEM Podcast, Dr. Rameesh Madourie sits down with Zach Neihman, a mechanical engineer turned software leader, to explore how powerful mentorship, failure, and self-discovery can spark a lifelong passion for STEM. Zach opens up about the pivotal moment in high school when...

In this powerful episode of the Why STEM Podcast, Dr. Fernando Branch joins host Dr. Rameesh Madourie to share his remarkable journey from Memphis to becoming a transformative leader in STEAM education. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Branch reflects on his early challenges, the inequities he witnessed firsthand, and the pivotal educators who changed his life. He dives deep into: The realiti...

What does bold leadership look like in the face of uncertainty, failure, and change? In this episode of the Why STEM Podcast, Frannie Matthews, tech executive, former CEO of the Colorado Technology Association, and educator, shares powerful lessons on leading through crisis, embracing failure, and trusting a beginner’s mindset. From navigating an undiagnosed learning difference to rising through t...

What does it take to turn setbacks into leadership success?   In this episode of the Why STEM Podcast , host Dr. Rameesh Madourie talks with Nahjee Maybin , CEO of Kenyatta Computer Services, about how failure, grit, and resilience shaped his path from a multicultural, military upbringing to earning two STEM degrees and leading his own tech company by the age of 26.  Nahjee shares real-life lesson...

Told he couldn’t be an engineer — now a licensed Civil Engineer building bridges in Colorado. In this powerful first episode of the Why STEM Podcast , host Dr. Rameesh Madourie sits down with Kemmy Mizinga , a first-generation African-American Civil Engineer, to explore the highs and lows of pursuing a career in STEM. Kemmy shares how a high school counselor’s doubt nearly derailed his dreams — an...

Welcome to the Why STEM Podcast , where we ignite curiosity, break barriers, and empower the next generation of STEM leaders. Hosted by Dr. Rameesh Madourie , this show is dedicated to students, educators, professionals, and changemakers who believe that STEM education should be accessible, inspiring, and transformative .  In this brief intro episode, Dr. Madourie shares:  ✅ Why the Why STEM Podc...